A level results day What are your options

A level results day What are your options by Michael Cheary It’s finally arrived After what probably seems like a lifetime of waiting, you’ve reached the culmination of the last two years of coursework, exams and hard work (delete where applicable), and now it’s here:  A level results day.For many, it means finding out whether or not you’ve attained a university place. But for others, there are plenty more choices to consider. So, here are our top tips to help you weigh up the options:I got the grades I wanted to go to universityThe ideal scenario for many when they open the dreaded envelope is that they get the grades they want, and receive an offer from their university of choice.If this applies to you, congratulations (see you back here in three years’ time).How to: Prepare for your first year at uniI got the grades I wanted, but don’t want to go to university right nowAfter all the stress and hard work of the last few months, some people simply want to take a break from education.If this is the case, contact the university directly and ask to defer. Although some will deny your request, most will allow it, and the quicker you contact them the better.However, this decision should never be taken lightly. In order to be accepted for deferment, you will need to justify to your University (and possibly your family) your reasons. Perhaps you want to work for a year to save up for university, for example.An advanced warning though: wanting to spend a year bar-hopping in Ibiza probably won’t quite cut it.How to: Start work after your gap yearI didn’t get the grades I wanted, but I still want to go to universityIf you didn’t do as well as you expected, don’t panic. Even if you didn’t get into the universities you put forward in your UCAS application, alternative routes are available.Clearing â€" Clearing  is a way for universities to fill the available spaces they have left for the academic year. Last year, 55,700 applicants were placed through Clearing. That’s 12% of all uni versity places.A list of Clearing spaces will be available from 8am on results day. The earlier you apply, the greater your chances of success. The Daily Telegraph has a dedicated Clearing app which shows live spaces, to help you keep up-to-date.However, if you’re looking for a particular university or location, it’s always best to check their website for the most accurate and up-to-date list.UCAS clearing: How does it work?For more information on clearing, visit the UCAS websiteRetakes â€" If Clearing isn’t an option, or you have your heart set on a particular campus, then resitting your exams* may be an option.Before you do this, take the time to talk with your tutors in order to deduce why your grades were lower than expected. More importantly, be honest with yourself. Did you really give everything you had, or could you have done better?If your answer for the latter is yes, you can apply to repeat your exams in January or the following summer. If you put the effort in and take the time to study properly, the extra year will be well worth it.*fees will applyA Level and GCSE retakes: Why it’s never too late to resit your examsOther qualifications â€" If you don’t feel like you will do any better should you retake your exams, there are alternative options. 95% of universities will accept more vocational qualifications as an entry requirements, for example OCR Nationals, NVQs and BTEC qualifications, such as a HNC or HND.These qualifications are generally more vocational, combining theory and a practical approach to work and study.Not sure what qualification is right for you? Find out hereThe job I want does not require a degree University isn’t for everyone. And, regardless of your results, there are a number of other options available to help you embark on your perfect career.Apprenticeships, internships and volunteer roles are great ways to get started in a profession, and there are literally thousands available. So whether you just want to buil d some practical experience in a role, or you’re looking to build a career straight away, there’s something out there for everyone.Should I go to University?Apprenticeships for school leaversAside from apprenticeships, there a number of courses available to help your career progression, in subjects ranging from Finance and Accounting through to the Fashion and Beauty industry. Search available courses in your industry to find out more.Still sitting on the fence? Here are some benefits of studyingView all available courses nowI want to travel Similar to those that defer, you may just see this as the perfect opportunity to take some time out from education.A gap year can be a great way to avoid burnout, and ensure that you’re doing something constructive at the same time. From volunteering to learning a new language, there’s a range of opportunities to choose from, and, if you pick right, each can be a great way to set your CV apart later on in your career.The truth about work ing abroadI want to start earning nowFinally, you might just be ready to kick-off your career and start earning. Although this decision should not be taken lightly, working your way up in an industry could be just as lucrative as getting the right qualifications.So, whatever your results, with the right attitude and approach, not to mention a winning CV and Cover Letter, there’s no reason why you can’t take your career where you want it to go.School leaver CV templateSchool leaver cover letter templateReady to start searching for your perfect position? View all of our current vacancies now